New website enables citizens to support bumble bees throughout North America

Portland-based Xerces Society is partnering with other groups to establish Bumble Bee Watch, a website that will allow people throughout North America to learn from experts and help build a comprehensive picture about where bumble bees are thriving and where they need help. Citizens will be able to post images of local bumble bees throughout the continent.

Xerces, which specializes in protecting invertebrate species, is collaborating on the project with Wildlife Preservation Canada, the University of Ottawa, the Montreal Insectarium, the Natural History Museum in London, and BeeSpotter.

Bumble Bee Watch unites scientists and conservation organizations in Canada and the United States in the study and protection of North Americas bumble bees, says Scott Black, Xerces Society executive director. This web site will transform the way bumble bees are viewed and protected.